Emerging Technology Intern - Summer 2027

Synchrony Financial; Illinois; On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangement

Job summary

The Synchrony Emerging Technology Center at UIUC Research Park is seeking interns to explore AI, data science and other emerging technologies. You will work with our Innovation Station and SMEs to deliver projects for business stakeholders, spanning market research, data analytics, visualization, and software development.

This paid interns opportunity emphasizes collaboration, hands-on experimentation, and exposure to agile practices while balancing academic commitments.

Qualifications

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical thinking with good judgment and initiative.
• Detail oriented, self-motivated and able to work independently or in a team.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products.
• Demonstrated analytical abilities and problem-solving.
• Curious and quick to learn new concepts and tools.
• Excellent planning and organization capabilities.
• Engaging personality with collaborative teamwork ability.
• Familiarity with Agile project management practices.

Responsibilities

• Deliver projects in AI, data science and other emerging tech domains for business stakeholders.
• Contribute to market and technology research, big data analytics, and data visualization.
• Develop proof-of-concept solutions and software prototypes.
• Collaborate with Innovation Station and SMEs across disciplines.

Skills

Excellent oral and written comms

Critical thinking

Self-motivation

Microsoft Office

Analytical skills

Curiosity & fast learner

Planning & organization

Independent & team work

Agile familiarity

Job description

Role Summary/Purpose:

The Synchrony Emerging Technology Center at UIUC Research Park is looking for interns. The center will focus on advancing our internal capabilities in artificial intelligence, data science, and other emerging technology domains to create long-term value for our customers. Interns will work closely with our Innovation Station and SMEs to deliver projects for our business stakeholders. Projects can range across multiple disciplines such as basic market and technology research, big data analytics, proof-of-concept creation, data visualization, and software development.

Qualifications/Requirements

Excellent oral and written communication skills Critical thinking with excellent judgment and initiative Self-motivator with great attention to detail Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products Proven analytical skills Naturally curious and ability to learn quickly Demonstrated excellent planning and organizational skills Engaging personality with ability to work independently and in a team setting Familiarity with Agile project management methods and practices Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned

Eligibility Requirements

Must be registered as a full-time student at the University of Illinois Must be able to commute to the work location Have a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0 Must be willing to commit 10 - 20 hours per week during the academic semester and/or 40 hours per week during summer break

Grade/Level:

07 The hourly rate range for this position is $24.00 - $33.50/hr USD Annual and is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance. Actual compensation offered within the posted salary range will be based upon work experience or skill level.

Our Way of Working:

We’re proud to offer you flexibility. At Synchrony, our way of working allows you to have the option to work from home near one of our Hubs or come into one of our offices. You will be required to commute to your nearest Hub (either virtual or physical) for in-person engagement activities such as regular business or team meetings, training and culture events.

Field Sales and some Commercial team roles may have varied location requirements based upon partner obligations or preferences.

Eligibility Requirements:

You must be 18 years or older You must have a high school diploma or equivalent You must be willing to take a drug test, submit to a background investigation and submit fingerprints as part of the onboarding process You must be able to satisfy the requirements of Section19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. New hires (Level4-7) must have 9 months of continuous service with the company before they are eligible to post on other roles. Once this new hire time in position requirement is met, the associate will have a minimum 6 months’ time in position before they can post for future non-exempt roles. Employees, level8 or greater, must have at least 18 months’ time in position before they can post. All internal employees must consistently meet performance expectations and have approval from your manager to post (or the approval of your manager and HR if you don’t meet the time in position or performance expectations). Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Our Commitment:

When you join us, you’ll be part of an inclusive culture where your individual skills, experience, and voice are not only heard – but valued. Together, we’re building a future where we can all belong, connect, and turn ideals into action. More than 50% of our workforce is engaged in our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), where community and passion intersect to offer a safe space to learn and grow. This starts when you choose to apply for a role at Synchrony. We ensure all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We’re proud to have an award-winning culture for all.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice:

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. If you need special accommodations, please call our Career Support Line so that we can discuss your specific situation. We can be reached at 1-866-301-5627. Representatives are available from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday, Central Standard Time

Job Family Group: Information Technology

Synchrony is a premier consumer financial services company delivering customized financing programs across key industries including retail, health, auto, travel and home, along with award-winning consumer banking products. With more than $139 billion in sales financed and 68.5 million active accounts, Synchrony brings deep industry expertise, actionable data insights, innovative solutions and differentiated digital experiences to improve the success of every business we serve and the quality of each life we touch. Our financial expertise spans key product areas, including apparel, electronics and appliances, home furnishings, automotive, power products and sports, jewelry and luxury, other retail, elective healthcare procedures and services, and more. Our investments in technology across multiple platforms—in-store, online and mobile—allow us to engage consumers when and where they want. Our programs and tools strengthen the relationship between our business partners and their customers, driving growth and opportunity across the board.